De Jongh ruled out of Incoming Series

Springbok centre Juan de Jongh was on Friday ruled out of the three Tests in the Castle Lager Incoming Series this month following a severe chest infection which saw him being hospitalised for four nights.

De Jongh was admitted to hospital on Sunday evening, treated for pneumonia and discharged on Thursday morning.

According to Springbok team doctor Craig Roberts, the decision to withdraw the DHL Stormers midfielder was in consultation with specialists and with the player’s own wellbeing in mind. “Juan has responded well to the intravenous antibiotics he’s received in hospital and we’d like to thank the hospital and its staff,” said Roberts.

“Unfortunately this infection really takes a severe toll on the body and although he has recovered sufficiently, he has been advised not to participate in vigorous physical activity for the next three to four weeks, which is why we’ve decided to rather send him home to Cape Town.”

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer said the loss of De Jongh is a massive setback. “Juan is the fifth centre we’ve lost in the last month and his versatility in the midfield will be missed,” said Meyer.

“I’ve spoken to Juan and we wanted to give him a run during this series, as he’s been in great form for the Stormers. At this stage he needs to focus on getting better and returning to the playing field, and I’m sure he will bounce back strongly.”

A decision on replacements in the squad will be announced at a later stage.

There are plenty! But they are not blue knob polishers, nor over 30. How many centres do you need in the “group”, earning nice pensions? Debate the facts mate – don’t fall in the lager mentality trap of offending somebody for telling you the unethical keiser is kaalgat en sy bloubal hang uit.

Why would they need experience? How the f must they get experience, when men with walking aids are selected? How poor must a coach be if he can only select players that somebody else have developed at this level?

Get well soon but happy to see Jordaan in the mix
Cant wait for SP Marias to get recognition, I am keen on our backline youngsters that are coming through.
Bekke there is a rugby world cup to keep in mind so those injuries must be better managed now. Old crocs it will be for awhile so slowing it down but then do better at scrums. Surprised how fit some of them are, testament to Juan’s class, Vics professionalism and Schala’s toughness.